Moorea
Lush Mountains. Close to Tahiti. One of the best places in the world to swim with humpback whales
See the sights
Moorea is celebrated for its breathtaking bays, calm lagoons and a wonderful mix of ocean adventures and scenic island discoveries.
Belvedere Lookout
High in the centre of the island, the Belvedere Lookout offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in all of French Polynesia. From this vantage point visitors can look across both Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, with the dramatic peak of Mount Rotui rising between them.
At around 240 metres above sea level, the lookout sits within the lush Opunohu Valley and reveals the volcanic crater that once formed the island of Moorea. The view stretches across dense jungle, pineapple plantations and the island’s brilliant turquoise lagoon, making it one of the most photographed landscapes in Tahiti.
Many island tours stop here for photographs, but visitors can also access hiking trails that lead deeper into the valley and toward ancient Polynesian marae hidden in the surrounding forest.
Lagoon & Snorkelling Tours
Moorea’s lagoon is one of the best places in Tahiti to explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life. Calm, clear water allows snorkellers to drift above coral gardens filled with colourful fish, giant clams and reef formations.
Many lagoon tours include stops where visitors can safely swim alongside stingrays and black-tip reef sharks in shallow sandbanks, creating an unforgettable marine encounter.
Opunohu Bay Scenic Drive
These two magnificent bays are among Moorea’s most iconic landscapes. Both bays are framed by towering volcanic peaks and lush rainforest, creating dramatic scenery that greets visitors as they arrive on the island.
Cook’s Bay is the island’s main hub with restaurants, shops and marinas lining the shoreline, while nearby Opunohu Bay remains quieter and more untouched. The steep mountains rising from the sea create a breathtaking contrast with the calm lagoon waters below.
Moorea Dolphin & Whale Watching
Moorea’s waters are home to playful dolphins year-round, while humpback whales visit the island between July and October. Watching these magnificent creatures in the wild is an unforgettable Moorea experience.
Foodie Hot Spots
To replenish your adventurous mind, body and spirit
Rudy’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
One of Moorea’s best-known dining spots, Rudy’s is loved for its warm hospitality, fresh seafood and generous island-style dishes. The tuna steak and poisson cru are local favourites.
Local Restaurants in Moorea
Moorea offers a wonderful mix of relaxed beachfront dining and lively local eateries, with several standout spots around the island. Moorea Beach Café sits right on the lagoon with sweeping views toward Tahiti, making it a perfect setting for sunset dining and refined French-Polynesian cuisine. For a more casual and authentic experience, Snack Mahana is a local favourite right on the water’s edge, famous for its fresh lagoon fish and signature mahi-mahi with vanilla sauce. Near Cook’s Bay, Arii Vahine Restaurant provides a peaceful waterfront setting serving classic Polynesian flavours alongside French-inspired dishes, ideal for a relaxed lunch or evening meal. For those craving something hearty after a day exploring the island, Holy Steak House is a lively and popular choice known for quality steaks, seafood and generous portions.
A Moorea Secret
Not just beaches and lagoons
Seeing Pineapples!
Many visitors come to Moorea for its lagoon and beaches, but few realise the island is also home to one of the South Pacific’s most important pineapple growing regions. The fertile volcanic soils of Moorea produce exceptionally sweet pineapples, and much of the island’s interior is covered with pineapple plantations stretching through the lush Opunohu Valley.
A scenic drive through the valley reveals sweeping views of the plantations surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks, and small roadside stalls sell freshly cut pineapple and locally produced pineapple juice. A visit to the Moorea Juice Factory & Distillery is a favourite stop, where visitors can sample tropical fruit liqueurs and juices made from the island’s famous produce.
A Selection of our Moorea Resorts
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Situated on Temae Beach, Sofitel Kia Ora faces Tahiti across Moorea’s translucent lagoon. The setting offers calm, swimmable waters and powdery sand, framed by volcanic peaks and tropical gardens.
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
This romantic and intimate resort offers the perfect blend of Polynesian charm and contemporary luxury, with the only over-water restaurant in Moorea.
Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
Manava Beach Resort & Spa offers an intimate yet vibrant island experience. Guests can experience authentic Polynesian hospitality, paired with cultural shows, a coral nursery, and a deep respect for Moorea’s natural beauty.